Smelly Diaper Alert! Kidding, but now that I have your attention: Assume that any link on this site is an affiliate link. If you click on it, find what you need, and make a purchase, I might earn a commission at no cost to you. We're dedicated to debunking myths and being honest here, so in the spirit of full FTC transparency, Your link-clicking pays for my Maserati and full-time nanny. Ha! It does not.even.come.close. If and when it does, I'll be sure to let you know and send you something nice ;-) But in the meantime, know that affiliate links are ALWAYS at NO additional cost to you and we make every attempt to test what we recommend! - Ashley, LAP
What does your pediatrician really think of you?
For over a decade, I’ve been the one sitting on that spinny stool, talking to parents about every pediatric issue under the sun. And between the advice, reassurance, and tough questions, I came up with a few things I wish all my patients’ parents could know.
1.) I realize you’ve had a long wait, and I feel bad about it.
Right off the bat, I want to apologize. My office is busy today… Everything from a brand-newborn with antsy parents to a depressed teenager with lupus who (oops!) may or may not be pregnant. My schedulers, triage staff, and nurses have been trying to keep everything on track, but something inevitably takes longer than expected. Take heart in knowing that someday, if you need some extra time, you’ll get it too.
2.) I see the (crappy) snacks in your purse, but I am not judging your parenting.
Believe me, I know parenting is complicated. I’ve witnessed a wide range of parenting proficiency behind these doors, and I’m pretty forgiving. There are an infinite number of ways to be a thoughtful and compassionate parent, and as long as you’re trying to be that, I’m good. After all, I know what you’re up against. I’ve been there myself.
There are an infinite number of ways to be a thoughtful and compassionate parent. Trying to be that? I’m good. Dr. McGee #pediatrician
Click to Tweet3.) That being said, please tell your child to stop licking the floor.
The patient in this room fifteen minutes ago had a germ you do not want. Trust me, the hand sanitizer is not here by accident. Just don’t let your kid lick that, too.
4.) I believe you.
You didn’t have to stop wiping your kid’s nose, avoid cleaning his eye goo, or keep him wrapped in a bloody shirt just so I can “see how bad it is.” If you tell me his temperature was 102.3 an hour ago, but then you gave him ibuprofen, I’m not going to think you’re lying.
5.) With that it mind, it is helpful if you tell the truth.
Not just because your words steer my medical decision making. (You never let your child have sugary drinks? Ever?)
Tell the truth to your pediatrician because your kid is listening, and he knows when Mommy is lying. To the doctor! Remember that part about me not questioning your parenting? I have my limits.
6.) A virus is a germ.
Me: “This looks like a viral infection.”
Misinformed Parent: “So, you’re trying to tell me there’s nothing wrong?”
Please, Thoughtful and Compassionate Parents, spread the word. A viral infection is still an infection. It does not mean there are no problems, or that your child’s symptoms are trivial.
I love annihilating bacteria as much as the next guy, but I don’t prescribe antibiotics when they’re not going to do anything. The great news about most common viruses is that your child’s immune system can take them down, without any help from me.
7.) I really believe in the recommended vaccines. And I don’t profit from them.
Unless you consider the well-being we get from seeing fewer severe illnesses and fewer dying babies, pediatricians do not get paid for pushing vaccines. In fact, vaccines are expensive to stock, store, and administer, so offering them sometimes results in a cash loss for pediatric practices.
Speaking of vaccines, did you know there are lots of vaccines that we don’t give your children? Only vaccines that are exceptionally safe and exceptionally necessary get recommended by pediatricians. Which means, unless you’ve dedicated your career to researching this area (in which case I bet you already got your kid vaccinated), it seems silly not to trust the scores of scientists who have.
Please consider it a compliment if I forget your name. Your children have been blessed with good health. -Dr. McGee #pediatrician
Click to Tweet8.) Please consider it a compliment if I forget your name.
Really, it’s a good thing. Not only have your children been blessed with good health, you are doing everything right. I don’t need to worry about you. You listen to my advice. Your kids get better. Thoughtful, compassionate parents? Yes, you are.